[WhatWuzThatBlue]

NI, you are trying to teach a pig to sing...it ain't happenin'.

Let it go; you'll never be able to explain to people like him what it means to be professional. When the AMLU site posted a notice stipulating that they would not work any amateur contests while on strike, that was merely a suggestion to their members (right!). If Jeff didn't receive an email asking him not to accept MiLB assignments, that speaks volumes about what others thought of him. I received a half dozen from mostly ML guys. They implored me not to cross their line and support my brothers in blue. I did not accept assignments, even when contacted by GMs and a local assignor. If Jeff did not recieve these calls it was likelly because they had never heard of him. The talent in the area is scouted and the best umpires are noticed. I'm sure that the same goes in your neck of the woods.

This strike went longer than any of them anticipated. The bank accounts are getting low and they need to bring home some bacon. I really couldn't care if they want to work some rec games or summer ball. Taking playoff assignments from the guys who earned them is worse than 'scabbing'. The replacements are accepting assignments that would go unfilled by the guys who earned the right to be there. The AMLU strikers have not worked forty game Springs (in the rain, snow and broiling heat). Now they want the plums and are only too happy to accept them. So much for being professional.

By the way - Pete in AZ don't be ashamed to work those games. Just do a great job and let the chips fall. Did you see if your photo is on the AMLU site? I wouldn't be surprised if someone snapped away and found one of you talking with a base coach - they'll label it "Scab getting red-assed for not hustling or blowing another balk call".